During a recent session, the House of Representatives proposed that the Federal Government allocate N100 million to Nigeria’s Tobacco Control Fund for better functionality. This proposal stemmed from a motion presented by a member representing a federal constituency in Cross River State, emphasizing the importance of adequately funding the National Tobacco Control Committee as mandated by the National Tobacco Control Act of 2015.
The current budget allocation of N10 million, though doubled from the previous budget, was deemed insufficient to effectively address the challenges of tobacco control in the country. The lawmaker highlighted the severe health risks associated with tobacco use, citing alarming statistics on preventable deaths, diseases, and economic costs attributed to tobacco consumption.
The House emphasized the need for increased funding to empower relevant government agencies to enforce regulations on tobacco use, including restrictions on smoking in public places and curbing the promotion of tobacco products. By calling for a budget increase to N100 million in the upcoming fiscal year, the House aimed to strengthen tobacco control efforts and reduce dependency on external funding sources.
Furthermore, the House requested the Federal Ministry of Health to provide a comprehensive update on the Tobacco Control Fund, including details on its current balance, funding sources, and expenditure history. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to prioritizing public health measures to combat tobacco-related illnesses and promote overall well-being within the country.